Looking to jump into Vinyl with VPI
 

Now that I have the rest of my system sorted, I am waiting to invest into a moderate vinyl system.

I know the VPI Classic Signature has been discontinued, however there are still some units available. I do prefer the cleaner look of the Classic to the Prime, but if I am missing out of a huge amount of performance then please let me know :)

The following two configurations have been recommended:

1. Classic Signature + Esoteric E-03 + Phoenix Cartridge
2. Classic Signature + Esoteric E-03 + Axia-S Cartridge

Thoughts? Comments?

I too like the look of classic signature. The prime gives you an isolated motor unit that may be quieter. But no one has complained about the classic being noisy.

I think the contributions to overall sound in a really good analog setup go some thing like this, with #1 being the most important:

1. Cartridge
2. Arm
3. Phono preamp
4. Turntable

I would definitely spring for the Phoenix cartridge, as that will mostly define the end sound. I heard one a few years ago and it sounded excellent - very good dynamics, tight, and fast.

Tom